Mulako Mukelabai BEng MSc

Mulako is a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Just Energy Systems within the Energy and Power Group, Department of Engineering at the University of Oxford. His research focuses on integrating advanced geospatial energy systems modelling, machine learning, and policy-driven system design to address real-world energy challenges. His work is grounded in the development of innovative, stakeholder-engaged frameworks that facilitate equitable energy transitions in contexts where renewable hydrogen can drive sustainable development. This multidisciplinary approach underpins Mulako’s commitment to devising low-carbon, impactful energy systems that effectively bridge academic research with actionable policy recommendations.

Mulako submitted his PhD thesis for examination at Loughborough University at the Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology. He completed his MSc in Energy Systems and Thermal Processes at Cranfield University, and his Beng in Mechanical Engineering at The University of Zambia.

• Just energy transitions and equitable energy access in developing contexts
• Hydrogen and clean fuel systems for low-carbon development 
• Machine learning, AI explainability, and AI in energy modelling and optimisation
• Geospatial energy modelling and stakeholder-engaged system design
• Translating technical research into actionable policy and investment strategies
• Energy optimisation and socio-economic feasibility analysis

• Communicated complex hydrogen and energy modelling findings into accessible insights through The Conversation Africa, https://theconversation.com/zambia-runs-on-mostly-green-power-but-households-use-polluting-cooking-fuel-study-suggests-how-to-fix-this-259209
• Finalist – PhD Award (Significant Contribution to Knowledge), recognising systems-level innovation in energy modelling.
• Runner-up – 3-Minute Thesis Competition, Wolfson School, for impactful research communication.
• Awarded EPSRC Studentship and Commonwealth Shared Scholarship for academic excellence, innovation, and leadership.
• Developed and validated a novel, low-energy power-to-ammonia-to-power system, achieving industry-leading efficiency benchmarks.
• Vice Chancellor’s Award – Best Performing Mechanical Engineering Student (2nd–5th year), University of Zambia.